Gay Cologne Cologne City Guide

For something truly theatrical, look no further than the Wasserturm Hotel Cologne, Curio Collection by Hilton — housed in reputedly the tallest historic water tower in Europe, an 11-storey 19th-century brick cylinder whose interiors were conceived by acclaimed French designer Andrée Putman. Her Parisian, faintly Art Deco sensibility delivered 88 individually designed rooms and suites with sweeping panoramic city views, a full-service spa, and the rooftop Bar Botanik, a lush greenhouse-inspired oasis with 360-degree Cathedral views covered further in the nightlife section. Set within the tranquil Altstadt-Süd neighbourhood, it sits within easy walking distance of the Rhine promenade and the Rheinauhafen district. Equally well-positioned, the Hotel Mondial am Dom MGallery occupies a prime Old Town address with rooms that — at their best — offer direct Cathedral views, a spa with sauna and hammam, and the Mondial 1516 restaurant for regional Rhineland dining with terrace seating. The Grand Habana Lounge cigar bar adds a pleasingly louche, old-world touch that sets this property apart, and the Heumarkt’s long-established LGBTQ+ scene is just a short stroll away.